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The RT Autism Awareness Foundation will enhance the quality of life for children with autism and their families through support, advocacy, awareness, and education.
The RT Autism Awareness Foundation is committed to ensure that children diagnosed within the autism spectrum receive the love, care, and therapy that they deserve. It demonstrates this commitment through its strategic goals of (1) public education, awareness and advocacy, (2) support and information for children and families, (3) financial growth and stability, (4) organizational effectiveness, and (5) commitment to the Foundation.
In May of 2003, Brad and Joan Trahan of Rochester, MN, founded the RT (Reece Trahan) Autism Awareness Foundation (RTAAF) shortly after learning in January 2003 that their son Reece, then three, was diagnosed with severe autism. The Trahan family, along with the RTAAF Board of Directors, wants families with children who are diagnosed with autism to know that they are not alone and that we will strive to ensure that neither children nor families face this emotional battle alone.
In the early stages of the Foundation, RTAAF established and supported autism awareness throughout Southeastern Minnesota and the surrounding area. However, that was only the beginning. RTAAF is extending its reach, enabling it to touch lives beyond geographical boundaries. RTAAF will not allow geography to be a barrier to the Foundation’s passion and goal. Through sponsored events and support groups, the RT Autism Awareness Foundation will continue to assist those diagnosed with autism, and will demonstrate this commitment through its powerful words, professional actions, and relentless determination.
Board of Directors
Brad and Joanie Trahan - Founders [May 2003]
Brad Trahan - Executive Director
Dave Kinneberg - President [Employer: ISD #535 and Coldwell Banker At Your Service Realty (CB-AYS)]
Mark Patterson - Vice-President [Employer: Riverstar, Inc.]
Martin Koza [Employer: Mayo Clinic]
Craig Anderson [Employer: City of Rochester]
Rachel Kessel [Employer: Mayo Clinic]
Laura Elwood [Employer: R&S Transport]
Renee Ferguson Employer: The Affiliated Group]
Janae Monett [Employer: Rochester Public Schools ISD #535]
Matt Murphy [Employer: Kathy's Pub Co-Owner]
Support RTAAF
RT Autism Awareness depends upon public donations to continue its work. You can help! Making a donation through our secure server is fast and easy, and when we receive your donation, we will send you an acknowledgement in the mail for tax purposes. Click the button below to make a donation. Thank you for your support!
A free, convenient service for converting that extra car, truck, or RV into a tax deductable donation benefiting RT Autism Awareness Foundation. You can donate online by clicking the button below, or call 877-999-8322 to make your donation.
Project Lifesaver
Project Lifesaver is in full swing and applications are now available for completion. For more information on Project Lifesaver, or to download an application, please click here
Diagnosis Autism
The website designed to help people and families that have been affected by Autism. Visit Here
Social Networks
RT Autism Awareness Foundation is on Facebook!
The Perfect Fit
An inpirational story from a sibling of boy with a form of autism called Aspergers.